The Marmalade Tree has been a part of downtown Oswego since they opened in 1997. “We opened just in time for Prairie Fest that year and had Beanie Babies in our window,” says Diane Krachtus, who owns the store with her husband, Tony.
The home decor and seasonal items that are carried in the story are handpicked by the Krachtus’ on their yearly trips to the Atlanta gift shows. The store also includes a woman’s line of clothing and accessories. Their keen eye for what their customers want to buy has been instrumental in their success as a small business.
Two years after opening The Marmalade Tree, the Krachtus’ opened a second store in Plainfield. Their daughter, Michelle Moser, managed the Plainfield store while they continued to grow in Oswego. The original Marmalade Tree shared half the building at 79 Main Street with a beauty salon. When the salon moved out in 2001, The Marmalade Tree expanded into the full 1,800-square-foot space.
Seven years ago, Krachtus sold their Plainfield store and concentrated their efforts on their hometown of Oswego. “Through the years, there has not been a lot of foot traffic downtown. We have done our share to make Oswego a destination,” says Krachtus.
Krachtus has helped to organize and chaired many downtown Oswego events such as the Bunny Hop, Twist and Shout — Mom’s Day Out and the Cookie Walk. “We are proud to have been a part of all of it,” says Krachtus, who is now passing the reins onto someone else.
After more than 17 years, Krachtus and her husband are retiring. A new owner will continue on at The Marmalade Tree. Aimee Long, has trained under Krachtus and will open the store again in a few weeks. “Aimee will carry on, yet find new trends just like we always have,” says Krachtus.
New salon
This weekend marks the three month anniversary of St. Charles’ newest salon, The Edge Salon. Owner Nancy Zahorak has worked in the hair care business for 15 years, including six years managing at Regis in the Charlestown Mall.
“I like my relationship with my St. Charles clients,” Zahorak says about opening her own place nearby. The Edge Salon opened in November, next to Mother’s Pancake House at 375 E. Main St.
Services at the salon include haircuts, color and chemical treatments as well as facial waxing. Zahorak plans to expand her services to include nail care and other spa services in the coming months. Although they cater to women, The Edge Salon offers children’s and men’s services, too.
Customers can make their appointments online and first time customers receive 20 percent off their services. Other specials can be found on the Hometown Rewards app for St. Charles.
The Edge Salon is currently hiring hairstylists. Contact Nancy at 630-940-2927 for details.
Know of a business coming to or leaving the Fox Valley area? Contact Pam Molnar at [email protected].
This Week
The Marmalade Tree
Where: 79 Main St., Oswego
Call: 630-554-7550
Website: themarmaladetree.com/
The Edge Salon
More Top Picks Best Nas For Home
Where: 3755 E. Main St., Suite 155, St. Charles
Call: 630-940-2927
Website: edgestcharles.com
Hours: Tuesday-Thursday 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Wednesday, Friday and Saturday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Closed Sunday and Monday